US Military Aircraft Carrying Over 20 Marines Crashes in Australia, Injuring All Onboard
In a tragic incident during a military exercise, a U.S. military helicopter carrying more than 20 Marines crashed in Australia’s Northern Territory. The crash occurred during an exercise drill involving military personnel from the U.S., Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Timor-Leste.
The crash happened around 11 a.m. local time near Melville Island, off the coast of Darwin. Out of the 23 Marines on board, some sustained critical injuries, with all of them being hurt. The V-22 Osprey helicopter crash left the military community and the world in shock.
The incident received immediate attention from Australia’s Department of Defence, which confirmed that the crash involved U.S. defense personnel. Fortunately, no Australian personnel were onboard or affected.
As the focus turned to the incident response and ensuring the safety of those involved, Northern Territory Police Commissioner Michael Murphy addressed the press. He revealed that five Marines were taken to Royal Darwin Hospital for treatment, while efforts were ongoing to transport the remaining victims there.
US Military Aircraft Carrying Over 20 Marines Crashes in Australia, Injuring All Onboard
The victims suffered a range of injuries, with some in critical condition, according to Northern Territory Chief Minister Natasha Fyles.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed his condolences and termed the incident tragic during a press conference in Western Australia. He underscored the government’s commitment to providing support and assistance during this difficult time.
US Military Aircraft Carrying Over 20 Marines Crashes in Australia, Injuring All Onboard
The U.S. Department of Defense acknowledged the incident but provided no further details at the time. As investigations into the crash began, the Predators’ Run exercises, in which around 2,500 participants were engaged, including 500 from the U.S., were temporarily halted out of respect for the victims and to address any potential safety concerns.
US Military Aircraft Carrying Over 20 Marines Crashes in Australia, Injuring All Onboard
The crash serves as a stark reminder of the risks that military personnel undertake during training and exercises. As the global military community mourns the incident, the focus remains on understanding the causes behind the crash and providing the necessary support to the affected personnel and their families.